What are the benefits to changing the demolition ordinance?

The proposed ordinance removes restrictions for partial demolition on the buildings that are 50 years old and older that are not in a historic district, local landmark, or National Register district which would otherwise have to go to HARB. For example, right now if the owner of a building built before 1972 in Davis Shores or West Augustine wanted to demolish their porch, chimney, addition, balcony, etc. the owner would have to apply to HARB. 

 The change would also remove the 30-day delay on partial demolitions. Incentives to enocourage compatible redesign and restoration are also being proposed.  The bottom line is that the current ordinance is ambiguous as to what constitutes partial demolition which can be interpereted differently by property owners, the HARB and city staff. The goal is to improve the language for consistency and to focus on those limited historic buildings that contribute to the authentic heritage of the city.

For more information, visit the Historic Preservation Updates page.

Show All Answers

1. Will my property be affected?
2. Will the changes affect new construction?
3. What is partial demolition?
4. What is the current demolition review process?
5. What are the benefits to changing the demolition ordinance?
6. When is design review required for a property not in a local HP zoning district?
7. What kinds of construction activities would constitute partial demolition?
8. Does this mean approval is required for any type of change?
9. Can a property be designated as historic if it is not currently designated?
10. Does this mean the historic windows cannot be replaced?
11. Where did this all come from, why is the city addressing this now?
12. Is there really a threat that the city could lose historic districts?